Breaking free from the grip of addiction, individuals and families embark on a transformative journey of healing, rediscovering dignity, faith, and the joy of a life lived in wholeness.
In the heart of Romania, the communities of Roman and Răducăneni are responding to a profound call—to bring healing and hope to those struggling with alcohol dependency. One of their key ministries is collaboration with the Don Orione Congregation in the ACAR project (Association of Clubs of Alcoholics in Recovery). This mission, rooted in the spirit of transformation, seeks to restore dignity, rebuild relationships, and create sustainable and responsible lives for individuals and families affected by addiction.
Alcohol dependency is not just a personal struggle; it ripples through families and communities, often leaving pain and brokenness in its wake. Recognizing this reality, the ACAR project provides a comprehensive approach to healing. It helps individuals battling addiction and their loved ones, awakening hope for a new beginning and the joy of restored family relationships. True transformation begins with a decision—the choice of the addicted person to embark on the path of healing. Once this commitment is made, the journey becomes one of guidance, accompaniment, and renewal through the support of professionals in the field of addiction recovery.
Healing
The recovery process at ACAR begins with a four-week therapy program at the center’s headquarters in Iași. However, healing does not end there. The support group serves as a sanctuary where individuals and families share both their triumphs and struggles, drawing strength from one another. Led by a dedicated moderator, these groups provide ongoing formation, reinforcing the commitment to healing and transformation. In Roman, there are three active support groups among the 13 established in the Moldovan region. Each group consists of a small number of families (usually no more than 12), fostering an intimate and supportive environment. Twice a year there is a gathering of the members of the 13 support groups, where the participants get to know each other closely, witnessing and listening to different testimonies and life experiences as encouragement for the abstinence and take part in different formative workshops. In Roman and Raducaneni, a half day spiritual renewal/recollection for the ACAR group families is also organized.
Testimonies
Testimonies from the participants and family members who embarked on this journey reveal the impact of the ACAR program:
What helped me overcome 6 years of abstinence, with the help of specialized people, I truly realized the devastating effects of alcohol consumption on me and those around me. Many thanks to those who dedicated themselves, body and soul, to our recovery.
I had reached the point where I couldn’t do anything, I was missing events, my life was literally slipping through my fingers, and I was at risk of not seeing my grandchildren grow up. With the help of ACAR, I managed to recover, and now I have a new, beautiful life that I want to live to the fullest.
Now, I have a normal life, full of joy and satisfaction, and with each passing day, I recover more and more of what I lost through consumption. My family relationship has returned to normal and is even more beautiful than before. I can say that I won!
It was not easy for me, but with a very strong will and with the help of God, the people in the ACAR group, and my family, I managed to give up this harmful vice.
I was hopeless, down to earth, because my family was going to fall apart (divorce) due to my alcohol consumption. Someone took me to an SSpS sister in charge of a support group. “I felt I ‘grabbed God by the leg’ by getting a new hope”. It has been more than 10 years ago and we are moving forward nicely.
Everything changed for the better. We would never have succeeded alone by ourselves. We will always have a living gratitude for those who taught us the true values of life. We thank all those who are involved in doing everything possible to help us live a decent life.
I was happy with my husband’s decision to give up alcohol, and I was always by his side. For us, the SSpS sisters played a significant role in our success. The warmth with which they welcomed us, their advice, and their unconditional dedication gave us courage and helped us move forward with serenity. (Family member of an ACAR participant)
From the position of a supporter, I had to change the way I looked at my husband, who for a long time consumed alcohol and whom I accused of being the cause of my suffering. But the moment I left the position of victim and saw him as a wonderful person, the good God brought light into our lives. (Family member of an ACAR participant)
Join the Mission
This journey of recovery thrives through the encouragement of family, the solidarity of support groups, and the wisdom of those who have walked the path before. You, too, can be part of this mission:
- Do you know someone struggling with alcohol dependency? Encourage them to seek help.
- Would you like to support this mission? Learn how you can contribute by volunteering or spreading awareness.
- Share your thoughts on this journey of transformation in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
Through education, formation, and faith, ACAR’s mission continues to inspire transformation—proving that healing is possible and a renewed life is within reach. Together, we can foster life-giving, creative, and respectful relationships with all of creation.
Path to Wholeness
The mission of ACAR is not just about breaking free from addiction—it is about rediscovering life itself. Through education, formation, and faith, individuals and families undergo a transformation, learning to build life-giving, creative, and respectful relationships with all of creation. In embracing responsibility and sustainability, they become witnesses of hope and renewal, demonstrating that a future free from addiction is not just a dream but a reality within reach.
As these transformed lives continue to radiate healing into their communities, they become beacons of light, inspiring others to walk the same path of renewal and grace.
Sr. Ana Tișea – Province of Austria (Community in Romania)
